Bok Kai Temple

Bok Kai Temple is a Chinese temple in Marysville featuring traditional architectural design with painted exterior murals showing cultural motifs. The building contains dedicated spaces for religious ceremonies and displays details of Chinese craftsmanship throughout its interior.

The temple was built in 1880, replacing an earlier structure from the 1860s. It served as the center of Marysville's Chinese community during California's Gold Rush period.

The temple is dedicated to Beidi, the North Deity in Chinese folk religion, and serves as a gathering place for the local community to perform religious ceremonies and celebrations. Visitors can see how residents come here throughout the year to honor traditions and maintain connections with this sacred site.

Visitors can explore the temple grounds, with special access during the annual spring festival featuring traditional ceremonies and cultural performances. It is helpful to check opening hours in advance and wear respectful clothing if attending religious events.

It is the only active 19th-century Chinese temple remaining at its original location anywhere in the United States. This makes it a rare testament to continuous worship and community practice spanning more than one hundred years.